A former player who was teammates with both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo compared the two stars.

There is no doubt that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are the biggest stars of this century’s soccer, and they hold a prominent place in the history of the sport. Both have left their mark on fans’ imaginations, who constantly debate who is the better player.

Ezequiel Garay has the rare distinction of having played alongside both Messi and Ronaldo. He played with Leo for years on the Argentina national team, and the two were finalists in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, where they lost the title match to Germany. He also played alongside CR7 at Real Madrid between 2009 and 2011.

In a recent interview with DAZN, Garay was asked whether he considered Ronaldo the best player he had played with in his career. “No,” the former defender answered honestly. “He’s number two. Number one is Leo, and Cristiano is number two, without a doubt.”

Digging deeper into the comparison between the two superstars, Garay was clear in highlighting Messi in particular. “They are two very different players, but the one who has surprised me the most is Leo. I’ve been fortunate to play with both, and Leo is something else,” said the former center-back, who, like Messi, was born in Rosario and began his career at Newell’s Old Boys.

Garay highlights a key trait of Cristiano Ronaldo

Even though he chose Lionel Messi as the best player he played with, Ezequiel Garay did not hold back praise for Cristiano Ronaldo. He specifically highlighted a characteristic of the Portuguese forward that stood out during their years together at Real Madrid.

“It’s true what Carlos Tevez always says,” Garay explained during the same interview, citing another Argentine who played with Ronaldo. “He’s the first to arrive at six in the morning and the last to leave. He does his routine, his training, his physiotherapy. Everything to always be in the best condition.”

Which players have been teammates of both Messi and Ronaldo?

Ezequiel Garay belongs to a select group of players who have had the fortune of being teammates with both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. That list also includes other former Argentine Real Madrid players, such as Fernando Gago, Gonzalo Higuain, and Angel Di Maria.

The same logic works in reverse: Portuguese players who played with Messi at Barcelona and with CR7 on the national team. Examples include Deco, Nelson Semedo, and Andre Gomes.

Additionally, during Ronaldo’s time at Manchester United, he was teammates with Argentine players Gabriel Heinze and Carlos Tevez, as well as Gerard Pique, who later returned to Barcelona and won multiple titles with Messi. Other examples include Paulo Dybala, Miralem Pjanic, and Henrik Larsson.

The CEO of Al Hilal spoke about the potential arrival of Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid to the Saudi Pro League.

Vinicius Junior has been in the spotlight over the past few months, along with several of his Real Madrid teammates, due to the team’s disappointing results this season. That situation has fueled rumors of a possible move for the Brazilian winger, with the Saudi Pro League as one of the most tempting destinations.

Until now, however, most of these speculations were based on rumors and media reports. But now an official voice has confirmed interest in Vini, which could completely change the scenario for the future.

Esteve Calzada, CEO of Al Hilal, gave an interview this week to Cadena SER, where he was asked about the chance of Vinicius Junior leaving Real Madrid to follow in Cristiano Ronaldo’s footsteps in Asia. “In our case there are no conversations, but the CEO of the Saudi league, whenever asked, says that if he is available, they will try to bring him,” Calzada said.

These words may be no more than an expression of desire, but the track record of the Saudi Pro League makes it a statement worth taking seriously. Currently, the world’s highest-paid player, Cristiano Ronaldo, earns a reported annual salary of over $200 million at Al Nassr. Karim Benzema, recently transferred to Al Hilal, also ranks among the highest-paid players globally, and Neymar was on that list until early 2025.

Vinicius’s contractual situation at Real Madrid

Vinicius is under contract with Real Madrid until the end of the next season, meaning June 30, 2027. While there is still time before that date, clubs usually begin renewal talks well in advance to avoid undesirable situations in the months leading up to the contract’s end.

In this case, however, Vini’s renewal has reportedly caused tensions, leaving the winger’s future uncertain. It is also notable that he has a release clause of €1 billion (approximately $1.18 billion). That amount was set to prevent the player from leaving without the club’s consent, as it is virtually impossible for another team to meet that figure.

However, the massive spending by some Saudi Pro League clubs in recent years has approached that amount. In fact, a few weeks ago, the president of Al Ittihad revealed that in 2023 he made an offer to Lionel Messi. “I contacted him before, when his contract with PSG ended. I offered him €1.4 billion. He rejected such a big offer for the sake of his family,” Anmar Al Haili said according to NIBC.

Another option for Vinicius

Alongside the growing speculation regarding the Saudi Pro League, Vinicius has also been a topic of discussion at Flamengo, the club where he began nearly a decade ago and which now dominates South American soccer after winning the 2025 Copa Libertadores.

“Now, what comes next is to talk about Vinicius Junior. When does his contract end, president? We won’t have to pay anything to Real Madrid,” Flamengo sporting director Jose Boto said during the press conference introducing Lucas Paqueta, another star of the Brazil national team, who joined the team this week.

Concacaf has released its updated club rankings, with Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami emerging as the top Major League Soccer team.

Inter Miami’s success last year in MLS has cemented them as the best team in the United States. However, that has not been enough for Lionel Messi‘s team to lead the overall Concacaf rankings, where clubs from other countries sit above them.

This week, Concacaf shared on its official website the updated rankings for clubs, leagues, and national teams, based on results from recent months. Messi’s team ranks third on the list, ahead of every other MLS club.

It’s clear that Inter Miami’s position is largely based on their recent MLS success, but it’s not the only factor. They were also Leagues Cup finalists and Concacaf Champions Cup semifinalists, in addition to participating in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where they reached the round of 16.

The top spot in the Concacaf rankings belongs to Deportivo Toluca, who won the last two Liga MX titles, Clausura 2025 and Apertura 2025. In second place is another Mexican team, Cruz Azul, after claiming the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup title with a 5-0 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the final.

Thomas Muller’s team is the next highest MLS club in the ranking, placing fifth behind Tigres UANL. Other MLS clubs in the top ten include Columbus Crew, Los Angeles FC, and Seattle Sounders.

How the Concacaf rankings work

The Concacaf club rankings are calculated using a complex system that evaluates each club’s results, considering not only recent performance but also previous seasons. Performances in domestic leagues, national cups, continental tournaments, and global competitions are all taken into account.

“The updated ranking is based on the difference between the match’s outcome and its expected outcome,” the official Concacaf website explains. “Before the match, the expected outcome is calculated using the Concacaf Club Ranking scores of both teams and the home team’s advantage… The difference between actual and expected outcomes determines the number of points clubs earn or lose, with wins over stronger opponents resulting in greater increases. This self-correcting system ensures fairness.”

Other rankings published by Concacaf

In addition to the continental club rankings, Concacaf also released updates for other rankings. One is the league rankings, where Liga MX unsurprisingly remains at the top, reflecting the dominance of its clubs. MLS ranks just below, with a close point gap. Following them are the leagues of Costa Rica, Honduras, and Guatemala.

Another update presented by Concacaf is the national team rankings. Mexico sit at the top, supported by success in the 2025 Gold Cup despite some disappointing results in recent friendlies. Canada and Panama complete the top three, while the USMNT ranks fourth.

Amid reported interest from Manchester United in bringing Marcus Rashford back, reports indicate the forward is willing to do whatever it takes to stay at Barcelona.

Marcus Rashford has exceeded expectations in his first months at Barcelona, prompting the Spanish club to consider keeping him beyond this season. His strong performances have also reignited Manchester United’s interest in re-signing him.

A few days ago, Telegraph Sport reported that Michael Carrick intends to bring Rashford back if he becomes Manchester United’s permanent head coach, impressed by what he has seen from the forward in Spain this season.

That possibility, however, depends on several factors. The first is whether Barcelona exercise their purchase option for Rashford, reportedly around $40 million. The second, of course, is the player’s own willingness—and that is where one of the main hurdles lies.

“Marcus Rashford has no intention of returning to Manchester United from Barcelona this summer,” The Mirror reported Tuesday. “And Rashford wants his long-term future resolved before England head to the 2026 World Cup in North America.”

But that’s not all. Knowing Barcelona’s financial challenges, which could complicate a permanent move, the English forward is even ready to make a personal sacrifice to help the deal go through. “Rashford is willing to renegotiate his annual wages and accept reduced terms, if it helps seal a deal with Barca,” the report adds.

Manchester United not an option for Rashford right now

Marcus Rashford’s future has been the subject of speculation in recent months, with all kinds of rumors circulating. However, there is one point on which all reports agree: the forward wants to stay at Barcelona beyond the one-year loan. “Rashford is loving life in Spain—and has told Barca he wants to remain at the Nou Camp,” The Mirror reports.

Still, the English star is aware that this desire may not become reality, especially given Barcelona’s financial constraints. Even in that scenario, a return to Manchester remains unlikely.

“It’s understood that even if Barca failed to meet the asking price, Rashford would look to join another club, rather than go back to United,” The Mirror adds, making it clear that Marcus has no intention of rejoining the Red Devils at this stage of his professional career.

Amid speculation surrounding his future at Real Madrid, Vinicius Junior has been mentioned in connection with a potential return to Flamengo.

Despite being one of the best players in the world, Vinicius Junior has seen his role at Real Madrid diminish in recent months. This is partly due to Kylian Mbappe, who has emerged as the team’s undisputed star and pushed the Brazilian into a secondary role. In that context, Flamengo have emerged as an unexpected option.

This week, the Brazilian club officially presented Lucas Paqueta, who returned to Flamengo after eight years following his transfer from West Ham United. During his introductory press conference, Vinicius’ name was brought up as a potential future target.

“Now, what comes next is to talk about Vinicius Junior,” Flamengo sporting director Jose Boto said, according to ESPN, before addressing Real Madrid president Florentino Perez directly. “When does his contract end, president? We won’t have to pay anything to Real Madrid.”

Those remarks, while delivered in a joking tone, reflect a genuine ambition from the Brazilian giants: to continue strengthening their squad with top-level signings in order to move closer to competing with Europe’s elite clubs.

When does Vinicius’ contract with Real Madrid expire?

The idea of Flamengo seriously pursuing Vinicius may seem far-fetched, but in the not-so-distant future it could become more realistic. The Brazilian winger is under contract with Real Madrid until June 30, 2027, with a release clause set at €1 billion (approximately $1.18 billion).

That figure makes an early departure virtually impossible unless Real Madrid are willing to negotiate his exit for a lower fee. However, if uncertainty continues over time, anything could happen. While there have been reports of potential contract extension talks, no agreement has been reached so far.

As the deadline approaches, Real Madrid will likely move decisively in one of two directions: either convincing Vinicius to sign an extension or actively negotiating a transfer to another club in order to secure a significant fee. But if the player holds firm, he could leave as a free agent in mid-2027.

Flamengo excited about Paqueta’s return

Beyond the speculation surrounding Vinicius, Flamengo have plenty of reasons to be optimistic. The club has secured the return of Lucas Paqueta, another homegrown star who remains in his prime and is aiming to be part of Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“Without Paqueta’s willingness, this transfer would have been impossible, no matter how strong our financial situation is,” Boto said at the same press conference. “Everything he did with his staff to be here was crucial. That shows how much he loves Flamengo. At this price, there were 10 or 15 European clubs that wanted him.”

Barcelona face Albacete in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals, and Raphinha will not be part of the squad.

With more than half the season already gone, Barcelona are one of the few teams in Spain still competing on all three fronts: La Liga, UEFA Champions League, and Copa del Rey. The latter is reaching its decisive stages, and this Tuesday the Blaugranas will aim for a spot in the semifinals when they take on Albacete. Despite the importance of the match, Raphinha will be absent.

“Raphinha is suffering from an overload in the adductor muscle of his right leg,” Barcelona announced Monday in a statement on social media. “As a precaution, he will miss tomorrow’s match against Albacete, and his recovery period is expected to be one week.”

This leaves Hansi Flick without one of his most decisive players. The Brazilian winger has been a key part of the team since the German coach’s arrival in 2024, forming a fearsome attacking trio alongside Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski.

In fact, this season Raphinha has stood out with 13 goals and 5 assists in 22 matches across all competitions. However, physical issues—especially a hamstring injury—have sidelined him for 10 games this campaign.

Other injured Barcelona players

Raphinha’s absence is a big blow for Barcelona, considering the winger’s importance to the team and his goal contributions. However, he is not the only key player missing for the Albacete clash.

Another star of the squad, Pedri, will also be unavailable for the Copa del Rey match. The Spanish midfielder has been recovering for 14 days from a right hamstring injury sustained on January 21 against Slavia Praha in the Champions League. Joining him on the sidelines are Gavi and Andreas Christensen, both out with more serious injuries.

Who will replace Raphinha against Albacete?

As has happened in previous matches without Raphinha, his spot on the left wing will be taken by Marcus Rashford. The English forward has adapted well in his first year at the club and has stats that would make him a guaranteed starter on almost any other European team, giving coach Flick full confidence in him.

Barcelona’s confirmed lineup against Albacete in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals is: Joan Garcia; Joao Cancelo, Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia, Gerard Martin; Marc Bernal, Frenkie de Jong, Dani Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Marcus Rashford.

𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐔𝐏 ️🔵🔴#AlbaceteBarça pic.twitter.com/syEvaoCgEe

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 3, 2026

A teammate of Lionel Messi in Argentina will likely miss the Finalissima against Spain due to injury.

Argentina are entering a crucial period in their road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Next month, they will compete for a title when they face Spain in the Finalissima, the tournament that brings together the champions of Europe and South America. In this context, a key teammate of Lionel Messi could be sidelined due to injury.

“Giovani Lo Celso suffers a myotendinous injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right thigh,” Real Betis reported on Tuesday in a statement published on their official website. “The Argentine player has suffered a moderate proximal myotendinous injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right thigh as a result of an accidental collision during the match against PAOK.”

The injury occurred nearly two weeks ago during a UEFA Europa League match on January 22 in Greece. Initially, the expectation was that the 29-year-old midfielder would miss just a couple of games before returning to action, but medical tests revealed a much more complex situation.

“His return to the squad will depend on how the injury progresses,” Betis limited themselves to stating. However, reports suggest the timeline could be significantly longer. “Gio Lo Celso suffered a muscular injury that will take him at least a month to recover from,” Argentine insider Gaston Edul said on his X account.

Lo Celso has suffered a myotendinous injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his right thigh.

Get well soon, @LoCelsoGiovani! 💚

➡ https://t.co/puMi6QBXFV pic.twitter.com/khXsZTCmea

— Real Betis Balompié (@RealBetis_en) February 3, 2026

“At Betis, they anticipated a possible absence of some duration for Lo Celso,” Diario AS reported, predicting an even more pessimistic timeline than the one shared by Edul: “His absence could last just over two months.”

Lo Celso almost ruled out for the Finalissima

The news of Giovani Lo Celso’s injury is far from ideal for Lionel Scaloni, as it inevitably casts doubt over the midfielder’s participation in Argentina’s next challenge: the Finalissima against Spain, scheduled for March 27 in Doha, Qatar.

If the most optimistic forecasts hold true, Lo Celso could recover by early or mid-March, giving him roughly two weeks to regain his best form and rejoin the Argentine squad. In other words, it would be a tight timeline.

If reality aligns more with the pessimistic forecasts and the midfielder needs at least two months to return, his presence in the Finalissima will be ruled out, and he would not play again until April.

Another injury complicates Lo Celso’s career

In recent years, injuries have been a nightmare for Giovani Lo Celso. In fact, this was one of the main reasons Tottenham let him go before his return to Real Betis. In Spain, he has struggled to maintain consistent performance for the same reasons.

The start of this injury streak came in the weeks leading up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup. At that time, Lo Celso was a key player for Argentina and Messi’s main creative partner on the field. But a serious muscle injury while playing for Villarreal kept him out of that tournament, depriving him of the chance to become a world champion. Now, a similar situation again puts his future with Argentina in doubt.

Inter Miami defeated Atletico Nacional of Medellin 2-1 in their second friendly of the year. Lionel Messi played more than 70 minutes and was involved in one of the goals.

Inter Miami completed their second preseason friendly this Saturday, securing a 2-1 victory over Atletico Nacional in Colombia in a match that delivered drama until the final minute. The hosts had taken the early lead, but Lionel Messi’s team turned the game around in the second half.

During the first half, Inter Miami were outplayed by their opponents. Atletico Nacional were the more aggressive side in attack and created numerous scoring opportunities. In that context, Juan Manuel Rengifo made the difference, opening the scoring with a superb shot from outside the box.

However, things changed drastically after the break. Atletico Nacional made almost a full lineup change for the second half, and the Herons capitalized on it. Messi led his team, which controlled possession and, after several missed chances, equalized through Luis Suarez. Then, in the dying minutes, an own goal by Rivero handed the MLS side the victory.

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano used this friendly to give some of the team’s new players valuable minutes. German Berterame came on in the second half to replace Luis Suarez, while Micael also made his first appearance in defense.

Timothy Weah had voiced his opinion on ticket prices for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino made it clear that he disagrees with those comments.

Ticket prices for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been a source of controversy in recent weeks, and the topic has now drawn attention within the United States men’s national team. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino addressed remarks previously made by Timothy Weah.

“It is too expensive… Football should still be enjoyed by everyone. It is the most popular sport. This World Cup will be good, but it will be more of a show,” Weah said in an interview with Le Dauphine several weeks ago.

Pochettino was later asked about those comments during a press conference and offered a very different perspective from the winger. “Players need to talk on the pitch playing football. It’s not his duty to evaluate the price of the ticket,” the coach said bluntly when addressing Weah’s remarks.

“It’s not about us to provide our opinion. Our responsibility is to play and perform on the pitch,” Mauricio added, including himself in that stance. “My duty is to prepare the team in the best way to perform. We are not politicians; we are sports people. We can talk about our jobs.”

Pochettino shows confidence in FIFA’s decisions

While making his disagreement with Tim Weah’s position clear, Mauricio Pochettino not only avoided criticizing FIFA’s decisions, but also expressed satisfaction with how the sport is being managed globally. “FIFA is doing an amazing job around the world, uniting people,” the coach said.

“If FIFA does something or makes some decision, they know why and it is their responsibility to explain why. I think for sure you need the media to ask directly to FIFA,” Pochettino added. “We need to be focusing on the sports side and trust in the organization that is in charge of soccer or football around the world that they are going to do the right things.”

Tim Weah under coach Pochettino

Since the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino, Timothy Weah’s involvement with the USMNT has been inconsistent. The winger was not included in the coach’s first call-ups after taking over in September 2024 and only returned to the squad in November of that year, when he appeared against Jamaica in the Concacaf Nations League.

After a couple of appearances in early 2025, Weah was left out of the Gold Cup and only returned for friendlies in September and October. However, Pochettino did not include him in the November FIFA international window. Those ups and downs hardly guarantee Weah a spot at the 2026 World Cup, and it remains to be seen whether this recent controversy will have any impact.

Manchester United coach Michael Carrick reportedly has plans regarding Marcus Rashford, currently on loan at Barcelona.

The situation at Manchester United has drastically changed in recent weeks. The dismissal of Ruben Amorim initially caused uncertainty, but the results under Michael Carrick have brought stability to the club. In this context, Carrick is reportedly planning to bring Marcus Rashford back to Old Trafford, ending his loan spell at Barcelona.

According to Telegraph Sport, Carrick intends for the Red Devils to recall Rashford and reintegrate him into the squad for the 2026-27 season, effectively ending his time at Barcelona. Of course, this depends on Carrick being confirmed as the permanent head coach, something that has yet to happen.

Rashford is currently on loan at Barcelona until the end of the 2025-26 season, but the Catalan club has the option to make the move permanent this summer by activating the €35 million ($41 million) buyout clause. If Barcelona decide to do so, Manchester United would have no say in the forward’s permanent departure.

Reports suggest Barcelona are satisfied with Rashford’s performances so far, having scored 9 goals and provided 12 assists in 31 appearances across all competitions. However, in Hansi Flick’s mind, he is a backup option, behind Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha. The question remains whether Barcelona will be willing to pay over $40 million for a player who is not even a starter.

Rashford would be a valuable addition for Manchester United

The improvement in Manchester United’s performances under Michael Carrick has been linked to strong contributions from several key offensive players. Bryan Mbeumo has been pivotal, scoring goals, including against Manchester City and Arsenal. Additionally, players like Matheus Cunha, despite not always being a starter, Amad Diallo, Benjamin Sesko, and Patrick Dorgu have all stood out.

In this context, bringing Marcus Rashford back would further elevate Manchester United’s attack, adding a new offensive option to compete with the aforementioned stars. Furthermore, the English forward’s experience could be crucial when aiming for major objectives.

Carrick knows Rashford well

Michael Carrick’s positive evaluation of Marcus Rashford is not just based on the forward’s recent performances at Barcelona. It’s also rooted in Carrick’s first-hand knowledge of Rashford, having played alongside him years ago.

Rashford made his professional debut for the Red Devils during the 2015-16 season, when Carrick was still a player at the club. In fact, the former midfielder remained with Manchester United for the next two seasons, allowing him to closely observe Rashford’s abilities. That familiarity could weigh heavily in Carrick’s decision to bring him back to the club.

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami play their second preseason friendly this Saturday against Atletico Nacional of Medellin.

Inter Miami continue to ramp up preparations for the 2026 Major League Soccer season, using preseason matches to build fitness and sharpen their competitive edge. This Saturday, they will face Atletico Nacional of Medellin, with all eyes once again on Lionel Messi.

For the Herons, this will be their second preseason friendly after a 3-0 loss to Alianza Lima in Peru one week ago. Head coach Javier Mascherano is still awaiting the arrival of several players whose administrative clearances have not yet been approved, meaning a number of key squad members will be unavailable.

On the other side stands one of Colombia’s most successful clubs, who have already begun their 2026 Apertura tournament campaign with a dominant 4-0 win over Boyaca Chico and are also preparing to compete in the Copa Sudamericana. The anticipation surrounding Lionel Messi’s visit is expected to result in a sellout crowd of nearly 45,000 spectators.

Projected lineup for Atletico Nacional

Despite being in the middle of official competition, Atletico Nacional are expected to field most of their star players against Inter Miami on Saturday. This includes Colombia national team goalkeeper David Ospina, a former Arsenal player and former teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr.

Head coach Diego Arias is expected to line up his team as follows: David Ospina; Milton Casco, William Tesillo, Andres Roman, Simon Garcia; Juan Zapata, Andres Sarmiento, Edwin Cardona; Juan Rengifo, Marlos Moreno, Dairon Asprilla.

Projected lineup for Inter Miami

As was the case last week in Peru, head coach Javier Mascherano is expected to start a lineup largely made up of players who were already part of the roster last season, though the team will be missing notable names such as Tadeo Allende. Several new signings are also absent from the starting XI, including Micael, Sergio Reguilon, and German Berterame.

Inter Miami’s projected lineup to face Atletico Nacional of Medellin is: Dayne St. Clair; Ian Fray, Maximiliano Falcon, Noah Allen, Facundo Mura; Rodrigo de Paul, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia; Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Mateo Silvetti.

A player who won the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid has criticized Kylian Mbappe.

The past few weeks have been turbulent for Real Madrid. A coaching change, elimination from the Spanish Super Cup, and several poor results in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League have dealt heavy blows to Kylian Mbappe and his teammates.

In that context, Mbappe offered strong comments about Real Madrid’s current situation following the loss to Benfica, which forced Los Blancos into the Champions League playoff round instead of direct qualification to the round of 16: “We aren’t being consistent in our play. We have to solve that. We can’t do it one day and then not another. A team of champions doesn’t do that… It’s about having more desire than your opponent.”

Days later, Predrag Mijatovic gave an interview to Cadena SER and shared a blunt assessment of Real Madrid’s current problems. “I think more than lacking players, what’s missing is a leader. I don’t know, a Sergio Ramos, a Modric, a Benzema, a Fernando Hierro,” said the former Yugoslavia striker. “This current Real Madrid team doesn’t have a leader figure who, in difficult moments, grabs you by the collar and asks, ‘What are you doing?’”

When asked whether the French star could fill that role as the team’s main reference point, Mijatovic was clear. “Mbappe is not a leader,” he said without hesitation. “All of Mbappe’s goals do not make him a leader. Being a leader is something else: it can be a player with less quality, but with personality and character, someone who is the coach on the field and whom the players listen to.”

However, Predrag did acknowledge Mbappe’s qualities. “He’s a tremendous player,” he admitted, before immediately offering an example to explain his point: “You know that Zidane with the French national team was never the leader—Deschamps or Blanc were. He was the best player, but not the leader.”

Who is Predrag Mijatovic?

There is no doubt that Predrag Mijatovic’s harsh words carry significant weight given who they come from. The Yugoslavia striker was a star of European soccer for years, scoring 176 goals in 534 club appearances.

After standing out in the Yugoslav league, Mijatovic arrived in La Liga in 1993 and quickly made his mark at Valencia. That led to a move to Real Madrid, where he played from 1996 to 1999, making 118 appearances, scoring 36 goals, and winning four titles, including the 1997–98 UEFA Champions League. He later continued his career with Fiorentina and Levante, retiring in 2003.

Mijatovic points the finger at Real Madrid’s players

In the same conversation with Cadena SER, Predrag Mijatovic also offered a diagnosis of who he believes is responsible for Real Madrid’s disappointing season. “We have to start asking whether this can really be fixed by a coach,” he said. “The president is not to blame. I think the players need to wake up a bit and ask themselves how they can improve.”

In that way, the former Montenegro forward made it clear that speculation about Xabi Alonso, Alvaro Arbeloa, or potential new coaches such as Jurgen Klopp or Unai Emery matters little if the players fail to rise to the level required to meet the challenges ahead.

A Premier League striker could become Christian Pulisic’s teammate at AC Milan.

AC Milan are enjoying a strong season in Serie A, battling Inter Milan for the top spot in the standings. However, club executives and head coach Massimiliano Allegri know that adding more talent will be necessary in the long term to further elevate stars such as Christian Pulisic. In that context, a Premier League striker has emerged as a key target.

“Jean Philippe Mateta has agreed personal terms with AC Milan, his favorite option,” Fabrizio Romano reported Friday in a post published on his official X account. Under this scenario, the only missing piece is an agreement between the clubs to complete the transfer.

“AC Milan have advanced in talks with Crystal Palace for the summer but trying to complete the agreement now; if CPFC give their green light,” Romano wrote. “Talks underway.”

However, while the initial expectation pointed to a possible move ahead of next season, developments could accelerate. “Mateta has informed Crystal Palace board about his decision to join AC Milan. He wants AC Milan now, immediately even if initial agreement was for June 2026,” the report added.

As a result, the English side made an important decision regarding the striker: leaving him out of the squad for Sunday’s Premier League match against Nottingham Forest. The move is aimed at protecting the French forward amid a potential transfer agreement to Italy.

Mateta could be a strong complement to Pulisic

Jean-Philippe Mateta has spent five years in England. He arrived in early 2021 from Germany’s Mainz 05 and has since delivered solid performances, totaling 56 goals in 186 matches across all competitions. This season has been particularly strong, with 10 goals and two assists in 34 appearances.

Those performances have caught Milan’s attention, as the club has long been searching for players capable of raising the overall level of the squad. The signings of Christopher Nkunku earlier in the season and, more recently, Niclas Fullkrug have not produced the expected results so far.

Looking ahead, the Italian giants hope to further strengthen their attack by building around Christian Pulisic, who has delivered the best performances of his professional career this season despite ongoing fitness issues. If they can also add a top-level striker such as Mateta, their chances of competing seriously both domestically and in continental competitions would be significantly boosted.

Mexico national team striker German Berterame has been announced as the newest addition to Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami.

After several weeks of negotiations, Inter Miami reached an agreement to sign a key attacking player ahead of the 2026 season. Mexico national team striker German Berterame was officially announced as Lionel Messi’s new teammate.

The roster rebuild following the 2025 Major League Soccer title focused primarily on adding defensive-minded players, including goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, defenders Facundo Mura, Micael, and Sergio Reguilon, and central midfielder David Ayala.

However, the Herons were also in need of a new attacking option, especially given the increasingly limited role of Luis Suarez, who finished last season coming off the bench, with young Mateo Silvetti taking over the center forward position.

“Inter Miami CF announced today that it has signed Mexican international forward Germán Berterame from Liga MX powerhouse CF Monterrey,” says the statement published Friday on the club’s official website. “Berterame will occupy a Designated Player slot and will remain under contract through the 2028-29 Major League Soccer (MLS) season with an extension option for 2029-30.”

Mexican forward Germán Berterame joins as a Designated Player, bringing a proven goal-scoring pedigree ⚽ Welcome to Miami!

Details: https://t.co/CBJatdte0z pic.twitter.com/IlIoaBuAbc

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) January 30, 2026

German Berterame’s background

German Berterame joins Inter Miami following a successful spell in Liga MX. He arrived in Mexico in 2019 after playing for San Lorenzo and Patronato in Argentina. His first club in Mexico was Atletico San Luis, where he scored 31 goals in 93 appearances. That form caught the attention of Monterrey, who paid more than $8 million to sign him in 2022.

With Monterrey, Berterame produced the best performances of his professional career, recording 66 goals and 15 assists in 148 matches. That run put him on the radar of the Mexico national team, and in 2024, after concluding that he would not have opportunities with Argentina, he completed the naturalization process to become eligible to represent El Tri.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just four months away, German Berterame has a strong chance of earning a spot on Mexico’s 26-man roster, having been included in each of the last four call-ups by head coach Javier Aguirre.

German Berterame’s first words at Inter Miami

Moments after announcing Berterame’s signing, Inter Miami shared a video in which the Mexico national team forward delivered a message to the club’s fans. “Hello everyone. I want to tell you that I’m very happy to be joining the Inter Miami family,” German said at the start of the video. “I’m coming in with a lot of excitement, anticipation, and pride to wear this jersey and bring many moments of joy to all the fans. I hope to see you soon. Sending you a big hug.”

Joao Felix assisted Cristiano Ronaldo for Al Nassr’s opener against Al Kholood in the Saudi Pro League.

Al Nassr are looking to regain ground in the Saudi Pro League standings after a poor run that left them behind Al Hilal. On Friday against Al Kholood, Cristiano Ronaldo scored for his team following a setup from Joao Felix.

After a historic start to the season with 10 consecutive wins, Al Nassr struggled to maintain that momentum, allowing Al Hilal to overtake them at the top of the table and build a lead of up to seven points. However, in recent weeks, Jorge Jesus’ team has secured three straight victories, putting them back in contention.

In that context, Friday’s clash against Al Kholood was crucial for Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates. Taking advantage of two consecutive draws by Al Hilal, they could move within just three points of the top with a win.

Despite facing one of the weakest teams in the Saudi Pro League—Al Kholood sit 14th with only five wins in 18 matches—Al Nassr had a tough task. In fact, during the first half, they couldn’t break through and went into the break goalless.

That was Cristiano’s 18th goal in all competitions for Al Nassr this season!pic.twitter.com/tC79bNdrxX

— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) January 30, 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo’s 961st career goal

Al Nassr’s struggles to find an advantage against Al Kholood disappeared after the break. Just two minutes into the second half, they built a brilliant team move involving Kingsley Coman, Angelo Gabriel, Joao Felix, and Sadio Mane.

Finally, after receiving a perfect pass from Angelo, Felix found himself inside the box, one-on-one with goalkeeper Juan Pablo Cozzani. The young Portuguese forward chose not to shoot and instead set up Cristiano Ronaldo, who was positioned just outside the box.

CR7 had all the time and space he needed to open the scoring with a gentle right-footed touch that left the defenders trying to cover the goal with no chance to react. With this strike, Al Nassr’s forward reached his 17th goal of the current Saudi Pro League season and the 961st of his professional career.

What’s next for Al Nassr?

After extending their lead with goals from Mohamed Simakan and Kingsley Coman, Al Nassr secured a valuable 3-0 victory over Al Kholood, bringing them very close to reclaiming the top spot in the Saudi Pro League standings. They are now just three points behind Al Hilal, with 16 games still remaining.

Jorge Jesus’ team will next face Al Riyadh on Monday, February 2, followed by a crucial matchup against the reigning champions, Al Ittihad, four days later. After that, they will begin their campaign in the knockout stages of the AFC Champions League Two against FK Arkadag.

Amid speculation surrounding his future at Barcelona, Robert Lewandowski’s wife has shared details on the matter.

Robert Lewandowski’s future has drawn the attention of soccer fans over the past few months. Against a backdrop of widespread rumors and speculation about what lies ahead for the Barcelona forward, his wife spoke publicly on the subject and made an important revelation.

“We’ll see how the season goes in Barcelona this year because, let’s say, it will probably be my husband’s last one here,” Anna Lewandowska said during an interview with Plejada. “So we squeeze it like a lemon. We enjoy every moment, every match with the fans, because we know that one day we won’t have any of this.”

Those remarks are revealing when it comes to the player’s current stance. Lewandowski is under contract with Barcelona until June 30 of this year, and it remains unclear whether the club will offer him an extension.

Under this scenario, Robert is in a position to negotiate freely with any other club in the world. FIFA regulations allow players who are in the final six months of their contracts to do so. That means that if Lewandowski were to receive a convincing offer, he could sign immediately and commit to joining a new team for the start of the 2026–27 season.

Possible destinations for Lewandowski

Uncertainty surrounding Robert Lewandowski’s future at Barcelona has fueled rumors about interest from clubs in different countries ahead of next season. Major League Soccer and the Saudi Pro League have emerged as potential destinations, especially considering the number of stars who have followed the paths of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in recent years.

However, when asked about what comes next, Anna Lewandowska did not offer a definitive answer. “What’s next? We don’t know, but that’s the path of a great athlete, especially a great sportsman, and we’re prepared for it,” she said in the same interview.

Lewandowski still has major challenges ahead

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future beyond June, Lewandowski still faces major challenges that will require his full focus. At the club level, he will aim to repeat—or even surpass—the success Barcelona achieved last season. The team has already won the Spanish Super Cup and will look to do the same in La Liga and the Copa del Rey, while the main objective remains the UEFA Champions League.

At the international level, the challenge is even greater. Poland failed to secure direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will therefore have to compete in the European playoffs. In March, they will face Albania, and if they advance, they will play for a World Cup spot against either Ukraine or Sweden.

Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta praised a young Premier League player with a subtle comparison to Lionel Messi.

Lionel Messi is one of the greatest talents in the history of soccer, particularly of the 21st century. That status has turned him into a reference point and a benchmark for many young players who draw attention early on because of their performances. Now, Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta alluded to that idea while speaking about a rising Premier League star.

“We are delighted to announce that Max Dowman has signed a pre-contract agreement with the club that will lead to him signing professional terms when he turns 17 in December,” Arsenal announced Friday through their official social media accounts.

Asked about Dowman during the pre-match press conference ahead of the Premier League clash against Leeds United, Arteta made his high regard for the English midfielder clear, comparing him to other young talents he has seen during his years as both a player and a coach.

“Certainly one of the best. What he’s done with us at the age of 15, me personally, I haven’t seen it before,” the Spanish coach began, before adding a clarification: “Only with a guy who used to play in Barcelona, but maybe not even that.” That final remark was an obvious reference to Lionel Messi, even though Arteta did not explicitly name him.

We are delighted to announce that Max Dowman has signed a pre-contract agreement with the club that will lead to him signing professional terms when he turns 17 in December.

Read more below 👇

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 30, 2026

“He certainly has not only that. He has a certain charisma as well and personality that he doesn’t get overwhelmed, whether it’s by the situation, or the stadium or the opposition, and that’s a huge quality to have,” Arteta added about Dowman.

Arteta knows Messi well

Mikel Arteta’s words about Max Dowman and the comparison to Lionel Messi carry special weight. The current Arsenal coach enjoyed a long professional playing career and witnessed firsthand the rise of the Argentine forward from his early days to the pinnacle of world soccer.

Arteta began his career at Barcelona, playing for the club’s reserve team in Spain’s third division between 1999 and 2000. That period coincided with Messi’s arrival at the club from Newell’s Old Boys, making it likely that Arteta had the chance to see Leo display his talent on the field even at that early stage.

Years later, the two crossed paths on multiple occasions. After leaving Barcelona, Arteta played for Paris Saint-Germain and Rangers before returning to Spain to join Real Sociedad for the 2004–05 season, Messi’s first as a professional. Over time, they met again several times, most notably in UEFA Champions League matchups between Barcelona and Arsenal.

Who is Max Dowman?

Although many players in recent years have been compared to Lionel Messi—and none have reached that level so far—Max Dowman has undoubtedly shown qualities that help explain those parallels with the Argentine star.

The English midfielder holds the record as the second-youngest player to debut in the Premier League. He did so on August 23, 2025, coming on as a substitute against Leeds United at 15 years and 235 days old. He is also the youngest starter in Arsenal history and the youngest player ever to appear in a UEFA Champions League match.

A player who recently left the Premier League to play in La Liga admitted that he still dreams of returning to Lionel Messi’s Argentina ahead of the World Cup.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is drawing closer, and no player wants to miss out. In that context, a teammate of Lionel Messi at the 2022 World Cup revealed his desire to return to Argentina’s national team, trusting that his recent move from the Premier League to La Liga could help him achieve that goal.

On Thursday, Valencia officially announced the signing of Guido Rodriguez, a 31-year-old midfielder who had played for West Ham United in the Premier League since 2024 and, after losing prominence this season, agreed to return to La Liga following his successful spell at Real Betis.

Rodriguez not only lost ground at the English club in recent months, but he also stopped receiving call-ups from Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni. Asked during his introductory press conference whether the goal of returning to the national team before the World Cup was on his mind when he agreed to the move to Valencia, he was honest.

“If things go well for me and for the club, it will give me the chance to come back,” Guido Rodriguez said, according to TyC Sports. “Being part of the national team is very difficult, but in the short term my focus is on Valencia’s important matches.”

🆕 2️⃣ & 4️⃣🦇 @Guido_Rodriguez 🤝 @unainunez30 pic.twitter.com/RkA8FAKgbg

— Valencia CF (@valenciacf_en) January 29, 2026

The midfielder then immediately addressed the challenges awaiting him at this new stage of his professional career. “They are not going through their best moment, but that does not stop it from being an attractive club for players. It depends on moments and seasons. We can change the moment and improve Valencia,” he said.

Valencia are struggling right now

Guido Rodriguez’s words about Valencia’s current situation are accurate. The Spanish club has spent several years away from domestic and international prominence, unlike the early 2000s, and is now in a particularly difficult position.

Valencia currently sit 14th in the La Liga standings, but their situation is far from comfortable. They hold only a two-point advantage over Mallorca, who are in the relegation zone. With less than half the season remaining, the risk is significant and there is little margin for error.

Can Guido Rodriguez return to Argentina before the World Cup?

Guido Rodriguez was involved in all of Argentina’s major successes in recent years. He played in six of the seven matches at the 2021 Copa America, where Argentina ended a 28-year title drought, and he later started in the Finalissima against Italy in the summer of 2022.

At the 2022 World Cup, Rodriguez arrived as a regular rotation piece, competing with Leandro Paredes for the defensive midfield role. In fact, he started the second group-stage match against Mexico. However, as the tournament progressed, Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister delivered standout performances, claimed the available midfield spots, and things were never the same for Guido.

Although Lionel Scaloni continued to call up Rodriguez in the following years, he used him sparingly, including one appearance at the 2024 Copa America. After September 2024, the midfielder stopped appearing in call-ups altogether and never regained his place. Now, with his move to Valencia, Guido has four months to rediscover his best form and prove that he can compete for a spot on the 26-player roster for the World Cup in North America.

A teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr could be on his way to La Liga to join Real Sociedad.

With the January transfer window nearing its close, every minute counts for European clubs looking to complete the moves they need for the second half of the season. Real Sociedad are no exception in La Liga, and they have set their sights on a teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr.

“Real Sociedad are closing in on deal to sign Brazilian winger Wesley from Al Nassr. Deal at final stages between clubs and player side,” Fabrizio Romano said Thursday on his X account, citing a report from Spanish journalist Mikel Recalde.

The Brazilian winger is just 20 years old and joined Al Nassr in mid-2024 from Corinthians in a deal valued at nearly $20 million. While his first year in the Saudi Pro League was solid, the current season has been far more challenging for the young player.

The signings of Joao Felix and Kingsley Coman, combined with stars already on the roster such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane, have significantly reduced Wesley’s chances of earning a spot in the starting lineup. In fact, under head coach Jorge Jesus, he has started just 12 of Al Nassr’s 27 matches this season.

“The deal will be completed as a loan with an option to buy. If things go well and he adapts to Real Sociedad, the plan is for the club to pay the fee in the summer and keep him,” Recalde’s report added regarding the Spanish side’s next steps.

Wesley’s departure could benefit all parties

The limited opportunities Wesley has had this season make it logical for him to view a potential move favorably. The fact that the opportunity would come in La Liga, one of the most competitive leagues in the world, only adds to its appeal.

For their part, Real Sociedad are searching for an attacking midfielder out of necessity. According to reports, the club initially planned to sign a center forward, but the unexpected injury to Takefusa Kubo last week, which will sideline him for around two months, forced a change of plans and prompted them to look for a player with similar characteristics to the Japanese star.

Finally, Al Nassr could also benefit from Wesley’s departure midway through the season. While they would lose a useful rotation player, the club could receive a significant fee in the medium term and reinvest it in a higher-profile signing. In addition, his exit would free up a foreign player slot on the club’s roster.

Spain’s national team has reportedly made a key decision ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With just over four months remaining until the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the national teams that have already secured qualification are making their final preparations. Among them are Spain, who have reportedly made an important decision regarding their stay in the United States.

“Spain’s national team has already defined its base of operations for the upcoming World Cup,” Diario AS reported on Thursday. “The team coached by Luis de la Fuente will be based in the city of Chattanooga, with Embassy Suites by Hilton Chattanooga Downtown serving as its headquarters, while Baylor School’s facilities will be used as the training center.”

This decision is particularly important given the matchups Spain will face during the tournament. The European champions will make their debut in the FIFA tournament on June 15 against Cape Verde at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Their second group-stage match will also be played there, on June 21 against Saudi Arabia.

The city of Chattanooga is just 118 miles from Atlanta, providing a major logistical advantage for Spain, as the team will only need to make a short trip from its base to the stadium for its first two World Cup matches.

To close out the group stage, however, Spain will need to travel a significantly longer distance. Their third match will be played on June 26 against Uruguay in Guadalajara, Mexico, a trip of roughly 1,800 miles that will require several hours of air travel.

Spain’s path in the World Cup

Given the tournament format, their Group H opponents, and the overall quality of the squad, Spain are unlikely to have major issues advancing in the 2026 World Cup. In fact, they are the favorites to finish first in the group, although Uruguay represent a potential threat.

Still, Luis de la Fuente’s team remains cautious and is not taking for granted a first-place finish in Group H. As a result, Spain have not yet defined their base of operations beyond the group stage.

If Spain finish first, they will face the runner-up from Group J (which includes Argentina, Algeria, Austria, and Jordan) in the round of 32. That match is scheduled for July 2 in Los Angeles. If they finish second, they would instead face the group winner (presumably Argentina) in Miami on July 3. If they finish third, their potential destinations become far more varied, including New Jersey, Seattle, Mexico, and Atlanta.

These multiple scenarios make it reasonable for Spain to avoid making a decision at this stage regarding their base during the knockout rounds of the World Cup, opting instead to wait and adapt as the tournament unfolds.

Lionel Scaloni and Diego Simeone, the coaches of Argentina and Atletico Madrid, reportedly held a meeting where they discussed Julian Alvarez and other players.

This year is particularly intense in soccer, as always happens during a World Cup season. Right now, while clubs compete in domestic and continental tournaments, national teams are making their final preparations for the FIFA tournament to be held this summer in North America. In that context, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni met with Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone, reportedly discussing Julian Alvarez and other players.

“Argentina’s coach visited El Cerro del Espino today, meeting with Simeone, Gustavo Lopez, and Nelson Vivas after Atletico’s training session,” Marca reported on Thursday, referring to other members of the Spanish club’s staff who accompanied the coach.

“With the Finalissima in March approaching, the coaches took the opportunity to share information about their players… The match between Spain and Argentina during the next La Liga break marked this morning’s meeting,” the report added.

This makes sense considering that Atletico Madrid’s roster includes six Argentine players, all of whom have been called up by Scaloni in recent times. They are Juan Musso, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada, Giuliano Simeone, Nicolas Gonzalez, and Julian Alvarez. “Scaloni and ‘El Cholo’ share concerns and needs. That’s why both wanted to agree on the best way to take care of their players,” Marca noted.

The situation of Atletico Madrid’s Argentine players

Of the six Argentine players currently at Atletico Madrid, five appear almost certain to be included in the 26-player World Cup roster. Only Juan Musso remains in uncertainty: the goalkeeper last played in 2021 and has not been called up since October 2024.

Nahuel Molina was part of the squad that won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and is considered Argentina’s starting right-back, having taken the spot from Gonzalo Montiel. Julian Alvarez also played in the last World Cup and remains a guaranteed starter, despite competition from Inter Milan star Lautaro Martinez.

Thiago Almada is another 2022 World Cup champion, but at that time he did not hold the same importance for Argentina that he does now. The talented attacking midfielder currently has a strong chance of starting in the FIFA tournament.

Finally, the situations of Gonzalez and Simeone differ. Gonzalez was a key player for Argentina before the 2022 World Cup, but an injury kept him out of the roster in the days leading up to the tournament. In contrast, Giuliano Simeone broke into the national team last year, and his performances have met Scaloni’s expectations. Both players now appear almost certain to be part of the 26-player roster.

Argentina’s next challenge

Before the 2026 World Cup, Argentina will face a major challenge. They will aim to win their fifth consecutive title when they face Spain in the Finalissima, the tournament that brings together the reigning champions of Europe and South America.

After winning the same trophy in 2022 by defeating Italy, Lionel Messi and his teammates now face a tough test: they will play Spain on March 27 at Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar, the same venue where they beat France and were crowned World Cup champions.

Despite rumors of a possible move to Real Madrid, one of Cristiano Ronaldo’s teammates on the Portugal national team is reportedly prioritizing the Saudi Pro League.

This time of year is usually intense when it comes to rumors, not only because of the January transfer window, but also because clubs begin planning their squads for the upcoming season. In that context, a teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo on the Portugal national team appears to have chosen the Saudi Pro League despite speculation linking him to Real Madrid.

“Negotiations at final stages now between Ruben Neves and Al Hilal over new long term deal,” reporter Fabrizio Romano said Thursday via his X account. “Agreement advancing over three year contract despite interest from Europe.”

The interest mentioned in the report is tied to speculation over the past few weeks about a potential return for the Portuguese midfielder to one of Europe’s top leagues. Real Madrid were identified as a possible destination starting with the 2026-27 season.

Considering that Neves is under contract with Al Hilal through the end of the current campaign, and could then leave as a free agent for any club he chooses, he has become an attractive option for several major teams. Manchester United have also been mentioned in speculation surrounding a potential move for Ruben.

Al Hilal satisfied with Ruben Neves

Ruben Neves was part of the first major wave of players who left Europe to join the Saudi Pro League in the summer of 2023, following the path of Cristiano Ronaldo, who had arrived just six months earlier.

After six seasons in England with Wolverhampton, the midfielder made the move to Al Hilal in exchange for a lucrative salary and has since stood out in Saudi Arabia. He has recorded 119 appearances, 18 goals, and four titles, including the 2023-24 league championship. Those performances have been strong enough for the club to offer him a contract extension.

Neves has his place nearly secured with Portugal

Unlike what happened with many other stars, the move from Europe to the Saudi Pro League did not affect Ruben Neves’ status with his national team. He has continued to receive regular call-ups to the Portugal national team since the summer of 2023, and head coach Roberto Martinez appears to view him as an important part of the squad.

While it is true that Neves has not always been a first-choice option in the lineup, competing for minutes with high-quality players such as Vitinha and Bruno Fernandes, he started four of Portugal’s six matches in World Cup qualifiers. That suggests he has a strong chance of joining Cristiano Ronaldo at the FIFA tournament this summer in North America.

The Saudi Pro League could soon lose a World Cup winner who arrived by following in Cristiano Ronaldo’s footsteps.

The Saudi Pro League has been a major attraction in recent years for top-level players who left Europe in exchange for massive salaries. Cristiano Ronaldo was the first to take that path, and many other stars followed. Now, a World Cup winner could be set to leave the league in order to return to Europe.

“After two and a half seasons at Al Ittihad, N’Golo Kante has never been closer to leaving Saudi Arabia,” Foot Mercato reports. The reasons behind this situation are tied to opposing positions held by the player and the Saudi club, with each side defending its own interests.

“With his contract expiring next June, Kante has refused to extend his stay with Al Ittihad,” the report adds. “Al Ittihad’s strategy is clear: they don’t want to lose one of their key players for free… The Saudi club intends to use this winter transfer window to reduce its wage bill while also recouping a transfer fee.”

Kante joined the Saudi Pro League in the summer of 2023 after shining with Chelsea and was one of Al Ittihad’s marquee signings alongside Karim Benzema. Since then, the midfielder has made 106 appearances, scored 10 goals, and won two titles.

However, his move to a less competitive league has hurt Kante’s chances of remaining part of Didier Deschamps’ France squad, something the player is eager to address ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Can Kante play at the 2026 World Cup?

N’Golo Kante was one of the key figures in France’s World Cup triumph in Russia in 2018. He formed a brilliant midfield partnership with Paul Pogba that proved decisive in stabilizing the team on the road to the title, allowing attacking stars such as Antoine Griezmann and Kylian Mbappe to shine.

However, Kante lost his place ahead of the 2022 World Cup due to injury and was unable to take part in the tournament. Six months later, his move to the Saudi Pro League dealt another blow to his national team prospects. Since then, Kante has missed 22 of France’s last 34 matches.

A club change during the January transfer window could benefit the 34-year-old midfielder, who may find greater exposure in a European league and convince Deschamps that he is capable of playing at the next World Cup.

Kante’s potential destination

Al Ittihad’s position regarding Kante appears clear at the moment: either extend his contract to keep him at the club or negotiate his departure during the January transfer window to avoid losing him on a free transfer in the summer.

“This situation could facilitate a swift departure for the French international, especially as Fenerbahce’s interest is growing and discussions could intensify in the coming days,” Foot Mercato notes. The Turkish club is competing in the UEFA Europa League, which could provide Kante with the visibility he needs at this stage of his career.

One of Lionel Messi’s records in the UEFA Champions League was matched by Robert Lewandowski after his goal on Wednesday against Copenhagen.

Wednesday’s decisive matchday in the UEFA Champions League league phase brought moments of maximum tension and pressure, with clubs fighting for their future in the competition. Barcelona and Copenhagen were no exception, and it was there that Robert Lewandowski scored a goal that allowed him to equal one of Lionel Messi’s records.

The Danish side had taken an early lead thanks to a goal from Viktor Dadason. However, after the break, Barcelona pulled level through the Polish striker, who finished off an excellent team move with a delicate right-footed touch.

With that goal, Lewandowski equaled Messi’s record as the player who has scored against the most teams in Champions League history. Since making his debut in the competition with Borussia Dortmund during the 2011–12 season, Lewandowski has now scored against 40 different clubs.

The 37-year-old forward struggled to reach this milestone. He had finished last season just two goals shy of Messi’s record, but physical issues over the past few months prevented him from reaching it sooner.

In fact, during the league phase, Barcelona faced three opponents that Lewandowski had never scored against before (Newcastle, Club Brugge, and Eintracht Frankfurt), and he was unable to do so this time as well. It was only last week against Slavia Praha that Lewandowski added another club to his list of victims, and he had one more chance on Wednesday against Copenhagen, an opportunity he did not waste.

Lewandowski’s favorite Champions League victims

Robert Lewandowski is the third-highest scorer in Champions League history, with 107 goals in 140 matches, trailing only Lionel Messi (129 goals) and Cristiano Ronaldo (140 goals). As a result, it comes as no surprise that so many clubs have suffered at the hands of the Polish striker.

Over the course of his career with Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona, the club he has scored against most often is Benfica, with a total of nine goals. Behind them are Red Star Belgrade with seven, followed by Real Madrid and Salzburg with six each.

Can Lewandowski surpass Messi and claim the record outright?

Considering that Lionel Messi no longer competes in the Champions League, and that his contract extension with Inter Miami through December 2028 makes a return to Europe unlikely, Robert Lewandowski has a strong chance to claim the record outright.

However, uncertainty surrounding his own future means the Polish striker may not have many more opportunities to do so. With that in mind, Barcelona’s upcoming matches in the Champions League knockout stages could prove crucial in giving him the chance to secure the record.

Among the teams still alive in the 2025–26 Champions League, Lewandowski has not scored against several of them: Liverpool, Newcastle, Sporting CP, Atalanta, Bayer Leverkusen, Olympiacos, Club Brugge, Galatasaray, AS Monaco, Qarabag FK, and FK Bodo/Glimt. Whether Barcelona are drawn against any of those sides in the later rounds will come down to chance—and to Lewandowski’s ability to score the goal that would give him the outright record.

One of Lionel Messi’s teammates on the Argentina national team could be set to leave the Premier League to join Juventus.

The winter transfer window is approaching its conclusion, and European clubs are accelerating negotiations to finalize last-minute moves for the second half of the season. Others, however, are also planning with a longer-term outlook, as is the case with Juventus, who are reportedly close to securing the signing of a Lionel Messi teammate from the Argentina national team who currently plays in the Premier League.

The Italian giants are pushing forward in negotiations for Marcos Senesi. “Juve intend to secure and secure immediately to avoid being involved in high-stakes bidding in the coming weeks,” Tuttosport reported this week.

The Argentine defender is entering the final months of his contract with Bournemouth, which expires on June 30 of this year. In that context, several clubs have shown interest in him, including Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, aware that they could soon sign him as a free agent.

Mindful of the competition they face to convince Senesi, Juventus have stepped up talks and made a concrete offer to the player. “The Vecchia Signora has moved forward with the work, offering a four-year deal worth €3 million per season (around $3.5 million). This is the right basis for reaching an agreement in the coming days,” the Italian outlet added.

Senesi targets a spot at the World Cup

Marcos Senesi’s performances with Bournemouth have steadily improved since his arrival from Feyenoord in 2022. This season, the center back has made 24 appearances across the Premier League, FA Cup, and EFL Cup, registering four assists.

His form on the field and the proximity of his contract expiration make him an appealing option for several European clubs. However, the decision about his future currently appears secondary to Senesi’s main objective: earning a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

After making his Argentina debut in a friendly against Estonia in June 2022, Marcos Senesi was not called up again by Lionel Scaloni for more than three years, a period during which the national team won three titles. Last year, however, the coach gave him another opportunity, calling him up on two occasions.

During the October international break, the defender played all 90 minutes in a 1-0 friendly win over Venezuela in Miami. He then remained on the bench and did not feature against Puerto Rico, and the same happened in November, when he traveled to Africa with Lionel Messi and the rest of the squad to face Angola.

Over the next four months, Senesi will compete for a spot on the 26-man World Cup roster. It will be a significant challenge, considering his competition includes far more experienced international players such as Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, and Lisandro Martinez.

Portugal will face Mexico during the March FIFA break, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s participation in that match is not yet guaranteed.

The March FIFA break will be the final opportunity for national team coaches to experiment before the start of the 2026 World Cup. Portugal have two matches scheduled in North America, the first against Mexico, and there has been speculation surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s availability for that game.

A few days ago, it was revealed that Portugal decided not to include participation clauses for Ronaldo in the contracts agreed upon for their upcoming international friendlies. That decision, unsurprisingly, created uncertainty about whether the 40-year-old forward would take part in the March fixtures.

Now, details have emerged regarding Cristiano’s alleged requirements to ensure his presence in the match against Mexico. “CR7’s presence depends on the fulfillment of specific conditions that the player has requested in order to be part of the Portuguese delegation,” Infobae reported, citing TUDN. “Among the requirements are security, accommodations, and event logistics.”

Going further into those conditions, the report adds: “The priority is to guarantee security inside and outside the stadium, provide accommodations that meet the player’s expectations, and ensure efficient logistics throughout the entire event.”

Mexico’s anticipation to welcome Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo has never played a match on Mexican soil during his career, which gives the March friendly against Portugal far greater significance than a typical exhibition game. As a result, doubts surrounding CR7’s participation have generated anxiety among fans, who fear missing the chance to see the star forward up close.

In that context, the current outlook appears optimistic. “There is huge anticipation to find out whether Cristiano will be there, and at least from what we’re being told by the Mexican Football Federation, everything points to the player being there because the requirements Portugal are asking for are those expected for a player of Cristiano’s stature,” Infobae reported, again citing TUDN.

Portugal’s upcoming challenges

During the March FIFA break, Portugal will also have the opportunity to visit several stadiums that will host matches at the 2026 World Cup. On March 28, they will face Mexico at the renovated Azteca Stadium, which is set to be the venue for the tournament’s opening match between the hosts and South Africa.

Three days later, Cristiano Ronaldo’s team will travel to the United States to take on the USMNT. That match will be played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, which will host eight World Cup matches, including one of the semifinals.

Some of Lionel Messi’s new teammates at Inter Miami are working to resolve obstacles that could affect their availability to play in Major League Soccer this season.

After winning the Major League Soccer title for the first time in 2025, Inter Miami went through a major roster overhaul that included the departure of key players and the arrival of several new signings. Some of those new teammates of Lionel Messi are currently focused on clearing administrative hurdles in order to fully join the team.

Following last Saturday’s 3-0 loss to Alianza Lima, the Herons returned to training this week under head coach Javier Mascherano as they continue to build fitness and sharpen their form ahead of the start of official competitions.

Within that context, Wednesday’s training session brought several updates. “Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, and Luis Suarez are training without issues,” reporter Jose Armando wrote on his X account. “Luis Barraza is training with the team,” he added, referring to the goalkeeper who was one of the club’s most recent signings.

“Micael is not there yet, but he has already received his visa,” the reporter stated, a highly significant development. The Brazilian center back was announced by Inter Miami three weeks ago but had been unable to join training while dealing with administrative matters.

Now that his visa has been approved, Micael is expected to join the rest of the squad in the near future. This will be especially important following Sergio Reguilon’s injury, which is expected to sideline him for several weeks, as it gives Mascherano an additional defensive option.

Some complications for Inter Miami

While the return of Luis Barraza to training and the approval of Micael’s visa are positive developments for the Herons, there are also less encouraging updates. Tadeo Allende remains absent from team training despite his transfer from Celta Vigo being confirmed, a situation that represents a major complication for the coach given the forward’s importance to the squad.

That issue is compounded by the situation of another new signing. “Dayne St. Clair is absent from training this morning. He is still resolving administrative issues,” Jose Armando reported on Wednesday. The goalkeeper, who made his first appearance in the pink jersey during Saturday’s friendly, is considered a key piece for the team.

Even so, there is optimism that the situation will be resolved soon. “The expectation is that he will travel to Colombia,” the report added, referring to the second preseason friendly that Inter Miami will play this Saturday against Atletico Nacional Medellin.

A player Inter Miami get back

Amid the significant changes to Inter Miami’s roster between late 2025 and early 2026, one player who remained with the club is David Ruiz. The Honduran midfielder saw limited action last season due to physical issues, but he is now fully recovered and ready to return.

“I had a circulatory issue and needed surgery. It was hard to make that decision and be away from the field, but it was necessary to start this year from scratch,” Ruiz explained during Wednesday’s press conference. “Now I’ve recovered. I’ve overcome everything and I’m at 100%. I’m back, available, and very happy.”

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just months away, two Major League Soccer and USMNT stars could continue their careers in La Liga.

The January transfer window is quickly approaching its closing date, prompting European clubs to accelerate negotiations to sign new players. In that context, La Liga could become the destination for two Major League Soccer players who are aiming to represent the USMNT at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“Villarreal has agreed to a deal to sign USMNT right back Alex Freeman from Orlando City, per sources,” reporter Tom Bogert said Tuesday on his X account. “Deal worth north of $4m plus around $3m in add-ons + sell-on clause.”

Freeman played 38 matches for Orlando City during the 2025 season across MLS, the Leagues Cup, and the US Open Cup, recording six goals and six assists. At the end of the year, the American defender became a free agent but agreed to sign a new contract, a move that has now proven crucial in allowing the Florida club to receive a significant transfer fee.

Those performances not only earned the fullback a move to La Liga with Villarreal this year, but also established him as an important piece of the USMNT. He made his debut in June 2025 during a friendly against Turkey, and head coach Mauricio Pochettino included him on the Concacaf Gold Cup roster, where he started all six matches.

Having played in 13 of the USMNT’s 14 matches since June of last year, including friendlies and the Gold Cup, Alex Freeman appears well on track to be part of the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Another player who could leave MLS for La Liga

Just as Alex Freeman is reportedly close to completing a move from Orlando City to Villarreal, another USMNT player could leave MLS in the near future. “Espanyol and Celta Vigo continue to have strong interest is USMNT and Real Salt Lake midfielder Diego Luna,” Tom Bogert wrote on X.

With 10 goals and three assists in 32 matches across all competitions in 2025, Luna stood out as one of MLS’s top midfielders and an important piece of the USMNT. That form has drawn interest from several Spanish clubs, though it has also made his departure from the United States difficult in the short term.

“A move happening is very unlikely before end of January window as RSL don’t want to lose Luna now,” Bogert added regarding the midfielder’s immediate future. However, the outlook could change in the near term: “RSL open to (and expecting) offers in summer for Luna.”

Diego Luna has also been a regular presence in Pochettino’s USMNT squads over the past year. In fact, the Real Salt Lake midfielder was included in every call-up in 2025 and appeared in 17 of the national team’s 18 matches.

Is a major career move advisable before the World Cup?

Both Alex Freeman and Diego Luna are facing one of the most important decisions of their professional careers. With less than five months remaining until the World Cup begins, both appear close to securing a place on the USMNT’s 26-man roster.

However, a club change at this stage—especially to an extremely competitive league like La Liga—could present challenges. Adapting to a new country and language may require an adjustment period with limited playing time at club level, which could affect their chances with the national team. Both players will need to weigh these factors carefully to avoid unexpected complications ahead of the World Cup.

Inter Miami have confirmed their roster for the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, with Lionel Messi included on the list.

Inter Miami face the difficult task in 2026 of improving on last season’s performance, when they were crowned Major League Soccer champions. One of the main objectives this year for Lionel Messi and his teammates will be the Concacaf Champions Cup, and the club has now made an important confirmation regarding that goal.

On Tuesday, Concacaf published on its official website the preliminary rosters submitted by each of the 27 clubs participating in the tournament, including Inter Miami’s 20-player list.

Lionel Messi is, unsurprisingly, the biggest name among the Herons included on the Concacaf Champions Cup roster. The Argentine forward has competed in the tournament over the past two years but has yet to lift the trophy. In 2024, Inter Miami were eliminated by Mexico’s Monterrey in the quarterfinals, while in 2025 they lost in the semifinals to the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Alongside Messi are the team’s other major stars who were already part of the squad last season, including Rodrigo De Paul, Luis Suarez, and Tadeo Allende. The roster also features new additions Sergio Reguilon, David Ayala, and Dayne St. Clair.

Surprises on Inter Miami’s roster

The list of 20 players submitted by Inter Miami to Concacaf ahead of the Champions Cup includes several notable absences and unexpected inclusions. To begin with, some of the players who joined the club this winter are not on the list, such as goalkeeper Luis Barraza and defenders Facundo Mura and Micael.

On the other hand, the roster does include players who are not expected to remain with the team in the near future. The most notable case is Tomas Aviles, who has been loaned to CF Montreal through the end of the 2026 season. He is joined by Oscar Ustari, whose future appears to be away from the club, although there has been no official confirmation.

However, it is important to note that the list submitted by Inter Miami is not final. Concacaf rules allow clubs to add new players up to 44 hours before each match, as long as the total roster does not exceed 35 players. Since players already registered cannot be removed or replaced, the Herons currently have 15 available roster spots.

Inter Miami’s full roster includes:

• Goalkeepers: Dayne St. Clair, Rocco Rios Novo, Oscar Ustari

• Defenders: Gonzalo Lujan, Sergio Reguilon, Tomas Aviles, Noah Allen, Maximiliano Falcon, Ian Fray

• Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Telasco Segovia, Fabian Ruiz, Santiago Morales, David Ayala, Yannick Bright

• Forwards: Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Mateo Silvetti, Tadeo Allende, Daniel Pinter

Inter Miami’s top target registered by another club

In recent days, club officials have acknowledged Inter Miami’s interest in German Berterame. The Argentine-born, Mexican-naturalized forward is one of Monterrey’s top stars, and any potential departure would require a significant transfer fee.

While negotiations between the clubs continue and Berterame weighs a final decision on his future, Monterrey had no hesitation in including him on their 24-player roster for the Concacaf Champions Cup.

Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo weighed in on the comparisons between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal.

Lamine Yamal’s meteoric rise to the top of world soccer has been unprecedented. At just 18 years old, he is already established as a star for both Barcelona and Spain, while being widely recognized as one of the best players on the planet. His teammate Dani Olmo shared his thoughts on the inevitable comparisons with Lionel Messi.

“Lamine has his own path, and he knows it. Comparing him to Messi is crazy,” Olmo said honestly during a press conference shared by Sport on Tuesday, ahead of Barcelona’s decisive UEFA Champions League clash against FC Copenhagen.

After making it clear that it makes no sense to put Yamal on Messi’s level right now, Olmo was quick to emphasize how highly he values his young teammate. “Lamine is spectacular. He gives us a lot, and he’s going to give us much more in the future. We’re here to help him, to make him better. If he plays well, the team will win. This is a collective effort,” the Spanish midfielder said.

Finally, Olmo took time to joke about the stunning goal Yamal scored last Sunday against Real Oviedo in La Liga. In that play, Lamine netted his team’s third goal with an acrobatic finish after an assist from Olmo. “No one’s going to say anything about the pass, right?” the former Leipzig player said with a laugh.

Olmo has something that could belong to Yamal

Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal are not only creative partners at Barcelona, they are also teammates on the Spain national team. Between 2024 and 2025, they have played 11 matches together at international level, including friendlies, Euro 2024, the UEFA Nations League, and World Cup qualifiers. During that stretch, they combined directly on two goals, both coming from Yamal assists finished by Olmo.

Beyond the chemistry they show on the field, Dani Olmo currently holds something Lamine Yamal could inherit in the near future: Spain’s No. 10 shirt. Olmo has worn the number for the past couple of years after inheriting it from Marco Asensio, who wore it at the 2022 World Cup, while Yamal usually wears No. 19.

However, Yamal’s growing profile and the fact that he wears the No. 10 shirt at Barcelona — not Olmo — make the young winger the leading candidate to eventually take over that number for Spain as well. It remains to be seen whether that becomes reality ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In the organization of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, Spain have gained a significant advantage over the other hosts, Portugal and Morocco.

While players, coaches, and fans are currently focused on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, important decisions are already being made at the administrative level for the 2030 edition. Spain appear to have pulled ahead of Portugal and Morocco.

The 2030 World Cup will mark the 100th anniversary of the tournament, which was first held in Uruguay in 1930 and won by the hosts. To commemorate this milestone, FIFA is preparing its most ambitious edition yet: six countries across three continents will host matches.

Some opening-stage games will take place in South America to honor the first tournament, specifically in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay. After that, the competition will move entirely to the three main hosts: Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.

In this context, it’s natural that the host nations are competing for as many matches as possible, especially the most high-profile ones. The 2030 World Cup final has been at the center of speculation for months, and now a clear favorite seems to have emerged.

“Spain will lead the World Cup, and the final will be held here,” Rafael Louzan, president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, said during the Madrid Sports Press Association gala, according to Marca. These comments appear to put rumors to rest, particularly those suggesting Morocco wanted to host the final at the new Hassan II Stadium.

Which Spanish stadium could host the 2030 World Cup final?

If Rafael Louzan’s words reflect a decision already made by FIFA, the next question is which stadium in Spain will be chosen for the most important match in soccer in 2030.

There are two main options. One is Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu, and the other is Barcelona’s Camp Nou. These choices align with the two major power centers of Spanish soccer, Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, making the decision far from simple.

Both stadiums will enter 2030 in upgraded form. The Santiago Bernabeu underwent a series of renovations between 2019 and 2024 that improved amenities and increased capacity to 83,000 spectators. The same is happening at Camp Nou, which has been under construction since 2023 and is expected to reach a total capacity of 105,000 spectators once completed.

Spain’s previous experience hosting the World Cup

The only precedent is the 1982 World Cup, the only edition Spain has hosted. At that time, Barcelona hosted the opening match between Argentina and Belgium, while the Santiago Bernabeu staged the final, in which Italy defeated West Germany 3-1.

That solution satisfied both cities reasonably well, giving one the first match of the tournament and the other the last. However, that formula likely won’t apply in 2030, as the opening match will probably take place in South America.

Argentina icon Angel Di Maria spoke about the comparisons between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

There is no debate that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are the two most important players of this century. Their numbers prove it, as does the magic they continue to show on the field despite their advanced age. One of the few players who shared the locker room with both is Argentina legend Angel Di Maria, who recently discussed the strengths of each superstar.

Di Maria played alongside Ronaldo at Real Madrid between 2010 and 2014, and together they won six titles, including the 2013–14 UEFA Champions League. Based on that experience, the Argentine winger highlighted what he considers CR7’s most important quality.

“In terms of professionalism, Cris is number one by far,” Angel Di Maria said in a recent interview with Diario AS, placing Ronaldo above every other player he played with in that regard. “Everything with Cris was based on hard work and effort to be the best.”

Di Maria then continued praising the Portuguese star, but he was also honest when comparing him to Messi. “The way he worked, how he took care of himself, how he always tried to be the best while competing with Leo was admirable, but he happened to play in Messi’s era, and that made his goal much harder.”

When discussing the main difference between the two superstars, the Argentine winger praised Cristiano’s work ethic and professionalism, but was clear in pointing out that “Messi drinking mate in the locker room and then going out and proving it showed that he had a gift from God to be the best.”

Di Maria knows Messi well

While those four years at Real Madrid gave Di Maria a clear understanding of Cristiano Ronaldo’s qualities as both a player and teammate, he has an even deeper connection with Lionel Messi, whom he played with at both club and international level.

Messi and Di Maria first played together for the Argentina U-23 team that won the gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. That same year, Angel made his debut for the Argentina senior national team, where Messi was already an established star, beginning a journey together that would last more than a decade.

Argentina enjoyed the combined talent of Messi and Di Maria from 2008 to 2024, a stretch that included four World Cups and six Copa America tournaments. Together they won four major titles, including the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the 2021 and 2024 Copa America titles, and the 2022 Finalissima against Italy.

In addition to their international success, Di Maria and Messi were also briefly teammates at club level. In 2021, Leo left Barcelona to join Paris Saint-Germain, where he teamed up with stars such as Neymar, Kylian Mbappe, and Di Maria. During the season they played together in France, they won the Ligue 1 title.